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PM rebuffs calls to intervene in AFL drugs scandal

3 minute read

The prime minister has been urged to investigate and intervene in explosive drug allegations levelled at the AFL.

As the AFL wrangles accusations of secret drug testing, the prime minister has been urged to intervene and restore the code's reputation.

On Tuesday, independent Tasmanian MP Andrew Wilkie told parliament about allegations against the Melbourne Demons club doctor Zeeshan Arain and football club president Glen Bartlett.

Players who tested positive for drugs would fake injuries and withdraw from games to avoid match-day tests, Mr Wilkie revealed.

He claimed hundreds of thousands of Australians would watch games without knowing they had been "secretly manipulated" by the AFL.

Mr Wilkie urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to intervene and "do everything he can to restore and protect the reputation of our beloved game".

However, Mr Albanese rebuffed the calls during Question Time on Wednesday.

"These allegations - I'm not aware of whether they are correct or not," he said.

"I have a big job.

"On the job description isn't the control of the Australian Football League."

Mr Wilkie also accused the Labor government of preventing him from tabling evidence of misconduct among AFL staff and executives after his move was voted down.

The prime minister said Mr Wilkie should have gone to the person at the dispatch box in the chamber if he was serious about tabling the documents.

Mr Albanese said he was always open to discussion with other members.

"Sport Integrity Australia is aware of the issue and they have begun their assessment," he said.

"I'm sure that (Mr Wilkie) will forward any documentation to the appropriate body."

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